Best Aussie Vans Finalist 2015 Franklin Arrow Test Review

Practical and well thought-out, the Franklin Arrow is the perfect fit.

The Franklin range is manufactured by Concept Caravans, a company with a well-established pedigree in the caravan business. Our Franklin Arrow has an external length of 5.44m (17ft 10in) and weighs in with a Tare of 2025kg and a load capacity of 300kg. And, a little differently from just about every other van at BAV, it is a single-axle.

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Given the Arrow is described as a rough-road caravan, it’s not really surprising that its single axle is fitted with Vehicle Components Country Road Suspension (CRS), consisting of coil springs, dual shock absorbers and trailing arms.

At the serious business end, a DO35 hitch gives the point of connection and the drawbar comes with the usual facilities – handbrake, jockey wheel and two 9kg gas cylinders. An additional feature is the black checkerplate box fitted to the rear of the drawbar, which conveniently has access from the top, as well as two side doors. It’s not only good for all the usual caravanning gear, but could also take a generator. In addition to that, there is a good-sized tunnel boot, but I reckon the front box is a good addition, allowing for quick and easy access, without having to bend down too low.

The Arrow’s body construction follows a fairly traditional line – meranti timber for the frame and double-ribbed, silver aluminium cladding around the outside, with insulation between. Apart from the awning, the nearside features include a picnic table and an entertainment cubicle which comes with a TV swivel arm, 240/12V power outlets and sound system plugs.

INTERIOR

With this particular layout, Franklin has opted for a rear entry door with a rear bathroom, front bedroom and mid dinette and kitchen. Although that’s fairly conventional, it’s a little different for a single-axle caravan. Polyester plywood-lined meranti timber is used for all the cabinetry work and it’s all finished in contrasting black (for the doors) and white laminate.